The Aerial Silks “Artivist”: Lynsey Wyatt

Watch Lynsey Wyatt perform one of her aerial acrobatic acts – gripping and climbing long panels of fabric to dizzying heights, then spinning back to earth – and it’s hard not be arrested by the moment’s magic. This is strength with a little stardust … physical activity with an elegant edge.

But Wyatt's work – in public performance and at Cirqulation, a downtown circus-arts studio that teaches flexibility, inversion and aerial conditioning – is about something deeper, too: radical self-acceptance and healing. Here’s what Wyatt has to say about the rewards of being an activist/artist, and about the Star City spots that keep her strong.

Q: What’s the most rewarding part of doing what you do?

Wyatt: I've always loved to move but I haven't always felt safe in fitness spaces. The most rewarding part for me is holding space that is radically affirming and allows people to find joy in their bodies and feel safe pushing their limits.

Q: What local spots keep you nourished and committed to health when you’re not in the air – maybe a favorite restaurant or spot for massage?

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I bought a one way ticket, and joined the circus.” Lynsey Wyatt moved alone to the Dominican Republic when she was 16 years old. But it’s not what you might think… she’s bringing her skills and experience to Roanoke through her studio, Cirqulation. “Here I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to build a community. And it’s really about empowering people through not just the athleticism that this requires, but also through the artistry,” she said. “Is this something that people should be intimidated by?” asked Caitlin Francis. “I love this question. I’m so passionate about making this an approachable activity and I think it really depends on how you teach it. This is a progressive curriculum that is adaptable and that I’ve spent years developing. You start from the ground up,” Wyatt responded. But Wyatt says there’s a quick learning curve, and all you really need is to show up.

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